Beyond the AI Hype: Alex Shchekin on Building Technology That Solves Real Problems

What happens when AI moves beyond answering questions and starts getting things done?

On this episode of the South Florida Leaders Podcast with Brian Fay, Brian sits down with technology entrepreneur and investor Alex Shchekin to talk about AI, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and the difference between exciting ideas and solutions that actually work in the real world.

Alex brings decades of experience in technology, data, machine learning, and business. He shares the story of his early work in online market research, including his role in developing an early online survey system used for a major Old Navy research project. His career later took him into data and technology roles within the Blue Cross Blue Shield system before expanding into investing and new technology ventures.

Much of the conversation focuses on today's AI boom. Alex explains why a great AI idea is not enough. Businesses still have to deal with regulations, existing systems, privacy requirements, billing, data access, and the many other challenges that come with turning technology into a useful product.

Alex also introduces CareVerse, a project from Care Access PBC focused on making healthcare easier to understand and access. He demonstrates the vision for an AI assistant called Lydia, designed to help people ask healthcare questions in everyday language and take practical next steps. Alex describes a future where technology can help people find products, compare options, locate providers, book appointments, manage follow-ups, and navigate care more easily.

This conversation offers a practical look at where AI may be heading and why the biggest opportunities may come from solving real problems instead of simply following the hype.